Job Description

R&D Scientist II (Materials/Polymer Focus) - 626452

Location: Franklin Lakes, NJ (Onsite – 5 days/week)

Duration: 12-month contract (W2 only)

Pay Rate: Up to ~$35-37/hr.

Openings: 2

Overview

The R&D Scientist II supports the development and innovation of blood collection devices (e.g., plastic tubing, vials, needles) within a Specimen Management R&D organization. This role focuses on materials research and development, particularly polymer-based solutions, and involves both material characterization (50%) and innovation/testing activities (50%).

This is a hands-on, lab-based role requiring curiosity, independent research ability, and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments to support product development, verification, and innovation initiatives
• Conduct material characterization and testing (e.g., polymers, formulations, surface modifications)
• Develop and execute test protocols; analyze and document results
• Perform root cause analysis for product and manufacturing issues
• Prepare samples and prototypes for internal and external evaluation
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, and Medical teams
• Support design verification, requirements management, and transfer to manufacturing
• Maintain lab equipment and ensure compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP)
• Contribute to intellectual property (patents, invention disclosures)
• Mentor junior team members as needed

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in one of the following or related fields: Materials Science / Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering / Chemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Polymer Science, and Biochemistry / Cell & Molecular Biology
• Minimum 2 years of laboratory experience
• Strong background in materials chemistry (polymers required)
• Experience with material formulation or modification preferred
• Ability to independently conduct research (literature review, data synthesis, recommendations)
• Basic knowledge of statistical tools (Excel, Minitab, etc.)
• Proficiency in MS Office
• Strong communication and teamwork skills

Preferred Qualifications

• MS or PhD in a related field (not required)
• Experience in medical devices (preferred but not required)
• Exposure to biological sciences (e.g., tissue engineering, DNA engineering) is a plus
• Familiarity with material analysis techniques such as FTIR, TGA, DSC
• Experience handling clinical specimens (human blood)

Additional Details

• Must be comfortable working with human blood samples (training and PPE provided)
• Work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, with cross-functional collaboration
• Travel is minimal (up to once per year)
• No direct supervision responsibilities

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Strong foundation in polymer/material chemistry (non-metal/non-ceramic focus)
• Curious, self-driven, and eager to learn
• Able to work independently while collaborating with subject matter experts
• Comfortable in a hands-on lab environment

Hiring Timeline

• First shortlist due: Wednesday (3/18)
• Fast-moving process – early submissions strongly encouraged

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